Sutra 1

Question 1

What are the yoga Sutras

Answer 1

Sutras are a collection of 196 threads that explain the theory and practice of yoga
They were created by Patanjali around 200CE

Question 2

The four chapters of sutra

Answer 2

• Samadhi Pada: on concentration. This chapter reveals how the mind works.
• Sadhana Pada: on practice. This chapter offers more specific tools for meditation.
• Vibhuti Pada: on special powers. This chapter is more esoteric.
• Kaivalya Pada: on self-realization. This chapter is a deeper look at liberation.

Question 3

Sutra 1.1 Yoga Athanusanam

Answer 3

Atha:Now
In this sutra Patanjali discusses the importance of being present in the moment

Question 4

Sutra 1.2 Yogas citta vrtti nirodhah

Answer 4

Citta: consciousness
Vrtti: Fluctuations
Nirodhah: to quiet/restrain

Meaning: yoga is quieting of the fluctuations of the mind

Question 5

Sutras 1.6-1.11 The five vrttis

Answer 5

• correct perception
• misperception
• imagination
• sleep
• memory
  These are according to patanjali the five mental fluctuations (vrttis)

Question 6

Sutras 1.12-1.16 Practice and non-attachment

Answer 6

“the fluctuations of the mind can be restrained by practice and non-attachment “
Practice has three components: consistency, duration, devotion

Non-attachment is the willingness to release our attachment to external, transient objects